peel off fingernail polish

HOW TO REMOVE SHELLAC NAIL POLISH AT HOME

Shellac nail polish, known for its high durability and glossy finish, can pose a challenge when you want to change shellac nails with designs or take care of your nails. Fret not, in this article, we will guide you on how to remove the polish correctly and effectively to protect the health of your nails and the surrounding skin. If you’re unsure about the process, let’s explore simple yet effective steps to remove Shellac nail polish, ranging from natural methods to using professional nail care products. Read on!

WHAT ARE SHELLAC NAILS?

Shellac represents a line of nail products that combines features of both traditional nail polish and gel nails. Unlike regular polish, Shellac is applied directly to the nails and then cured under UV light, similar to gel nails. Removing Shellac typically involves using an acetone-based nail polish remover, but the drying effect of acetone on cuticles and skin can be a concern. Alternatively, you may opt for soaking your nails in a non-acetone nail polish remover to mitigate potential dryness and irritation.

TOOL KIT

  • Aluminum foil (cut into 10 pieces, each measuring 2 inches)
  • Paper towel (cut into 10 pieces, each measuring 1 inch)
  • 100% acetone (or nail polish remover with acetone)
  • Stainless steel cuticle pusher (or a wooden cuticle stick)
  • Nail file
  • Nail buffer
  • Nail strengthening polish
  • Cuticle oil (or coconut oil)

HOW TO REMOVE SHELLAC YOURSELF

STEP 1: PREPPING YOUR NAILS AND WORKSPACE

Cover your workstation, to protect it from nail polish remover

To prevent potential damage to surfaces, it’s advisable to use protective measures when working with even non-acetone nail polish remover. Lay down newspaper, towels, a trash bag, or any other suitable protective layer in your work area. In the event of a spill that permeates the covering, pause your work, promptly clean up the spill, and then replace the protective layer with fresh newspaper once the area is dry. Alternatively, glossy pages torn from a magazine can serve as an effective option for safeguarding your table or countertop. Choose a comfortable workspace, such as your desk or in front of the TV, as this process typically takes approximately 30 minutes.

Scuff the surface of your nails lightly with a coarse nail file

If you notice your natural nail becoming visible beneath the polish, it indicates that you’re filing too aggressively. Instead, lightly run the file across the nail surface a few times to remove the glossy finish. Although not mandatory, this step increases the surface area on your nails, facilitating better coverage by the polish remover and enhancing its dissolving effectiveness. Given that you’re using a less potent nail polish remover, incorporating this step can contribute to achieving more satisfactory results.

Coat the skin around your nails in cuticle oil

Even in the absence of acetone, nail polish removers have the potential to dehydrate your cuticles and the skin surrounding your nails. To mitigate this, apply cuticle oil using a cotton swab, massaging it onto the skin around your nails and the base where your cuticles grow. If cuticle oil isn’t available, opt for nourishing natural oils such as olive, almond, coconut, or jojoba oil. Alternatively, create a protective barrier on the skin around your nails by using petroleum jelly. This helps maintain moisture and safeguards your skin during the nail polish removal process.

Cut or tear 10 strips of aluminum foil to wrap around your fingers

Ensure the foil strips are sufficiently large to completely wrap around both your finger and the cotton ball, requiring one strip for each finger. Aluminum foil is easily tearable, allowing you to do this by hand, or if preferred, you can use scissors for a precise cut. Keep in mind that it’s advisable to make the strips a bit larger than initially estimated. You can always trim them down if they turn out to be too big, but you won’t be able to add more if they happen to be insufficient. Ideally, the strips should measure at least 2–3 square inches (13–19 cm²).

STEP 2: WRAPPING YOUR NAILS

Soak a cotton ball in acetone-free nail polish remover

Ensure the cotton ball is completely saturated with nail polish remover. If desired, you can tear or cut the cotton ball for a better fit on your nail, but ensure it remains large enough to cover the entire surface of the gel polish. Prepare one piece of cotton for each nail. There are two options for application: either directly apply the nail polish remover to the cotton ball from the bottle, or pour it into a small bowl and dip the cotton ball into the liquid. Additionally, you can choose to use acetone-free nail polish remover pads. If opting for pads, fold them in half or cut them to size to minimize contact between the remover and your skin. For optimal efficiency and to minimize exposure, it’s advisable to focus on one nail at a time, soaking only one cotton ball at a time.

Place the soaked cotton ball on one of your fingernails

Completely cover your nail with the cotton ball, applying a slight downward pressure to ensure it is firmly pressed against your nail. While you can start with any nail, it’s recommended to begin with the nails on your dominant hand. This approach facilitates the process, as once a nail is wrapped, you’ll need to switch hands. For example, if you are right-handed, it’s advisable to wrap your right hand first, allowing you to use your foil-tipped right hand to cover the nails on your left hand more conveniently.

Wrap the aluminum foil around the cotton ball and your fingertip

Position the flat side of the foil against the cotton ball, then wrap the aluminum foil around the sides of your finger and over the top. Press and pinch the aluminum foil together to create a sealed enclosure. Ensure a snug fit, as the foil must securely hold the cotton ball in place.

Repeat this process for each nail

As you proceed with wrapping your nails, the process may become a bit more intricate, requiring caution not to disrupt the foil already in place. Take your time, pay attention to each step, and don’t stress about achieving absolute perfection with the foil wrapping. Continue the process until you’ve successfully wrapped all ten of your fingernails with the cotton balls and aluminum foil.

Leave the foil in place for about 10 or 15 minutes

Allow the acetone-free nail polish remover sufficient time to soak into the nail. Once the designated time has elapsed, carefully remove the foil from the first wrapped nail and inspect the shellac. When it’s ready, you should observe the polish pulling away from the nail, and it might appear softened or gummy. If the polish isn’t detaching from the nail, rewrap your fingers and wait an additional 5 minutes before checking again.

STEP 3: SCRAPING AWAY THE POLISH

Remove the foil from the first finger when the polish is ready

Once the nail polish begins to peel up at the edges, you can proceed to remove the foil. It’s advisable to work on one nail at a time, eliminating the need to remove all the foil simultaneously. In case the nail polish remover starts causing discomfort to your skin, consider removing the foil from your nails. However, be aware that the shellac may become gummy or tacky as it dries, making it more challenging to remove. If this occurs, you may need to soak your nails again. Retain the foil, as you might have to re-wrap your nails if some of the polish remains stubbornly intact.

Use the cotton ball to wipe away as much of the polish as you can

Apply firm pressure on the cotton ball, wiping from the base of your nail up to the tip. If necessary, flip the cotton ball over and repeat the motion. Don’t be concerned if not all of the polish comes off; 1-2 swipes should be sufficient.

Scrape the remaining polish away with a wooden orange stick

An orange stick, also recognized as a cuticle pusher, is a petite wooden tool featuring an angled tip. Traditionally employed for pushing back the skin around your nails, it can also serve as an effective tool for shellac removal. Utilize the pointed tip of the stick to work under the polish, then gently lift the stick to peel the polish away from the nail. Given that wooden beauty tools can harbor bacteria, it’s recommended to use disposable orange sticks. Purchase them in packs and discard after each use to maintain hygiene. Never share orange sticks, as doing so increases the risk of infection. These tools are readily available at beauty or nail supply stores.

Re-soak your nail if there’s any polish that seems too hard

Avoid excessive scraping if the polish doesn’t come off easily, as it could potentially damage your nail bed. Instead, consider replacing the cotton ball on your nail, using a new one if needed, rewrapping your nail in foil, and waiting for an additional 5 minutes or so. It’s important to note that acetone-free nail polish remover is not as potent as its acetone-based counterpart, so in cases of particularly stubborn polish, be prepared to soak your nails for a longer duration to achieve effective removal.

Repeat the same process for each of your nails

After successfully removing the polish from one nail, you’ll gain a better understanding of the process. Unwrap the foil from each nail individually, then use a cotton ball to wipe away the polish and an orange stick to scrape away any residue. Progress to the next nail in this manner until you’ve completed the removal process for all of your nails.

Apply moisturizer to your nails when you’re finished

Non-acetone nail polish remover can potentially dry out your skin, and the scraping process may leave your nails feeling rough. Apply a thin coat of moisturizer, such as cuticle oil or hand cream, to the surface of your nails. If desired, you can also moisturize the skin around your nails.

CONCLUSION

Here is an enjoyable experience for you that can make the process of removing shellac nail polish easy at home. You can start with the basic steps outlined in the article. Hopefully, after reading our guide, you will have learned the necessary steps to easily change and remove nail polish at home without the need to spend time at a salon. 

FAQS

  1. What nail polish remover works on shellac?

Nail polish remover that contains acetone is typically effective for removing shellac. 

  1. Does removing shellac damage nails?

Yes, excessive or improper removal of shellac can potentially damage nails by causing dryness or thinning.

  1. Can baking soda remove shellac?

No,baking soda is not typically effective for removing shellac nail polish. Acetone-based removers are more commonly used for this purpose.

HOW TO DO DIP NAILS AT HOME

Doing dip nails at home is not only a creative experience but also a fantastic way to express personal style. This process not only provides a sense of autonomy but also helps you save time and costs. If you’re unsure how to create dip nails at home, read this article to gain a better understanding of each step. Keep reading!

WHAT ARE DIP NAILS?

A dip powder manicure is a technique that involves the application of both color and a resilient acrylic finish to the nails. The process begins by applying a base, reminiscent of super glue, onto the nails, followed by a dipping step into a colored powder. After layering the powder through successive applications, an activator is then employed to solidify the manicure, transforming it into a robust shell-like coating. This method not only adds vibrant color to the nails but also provides a durable and protective finish, ensuring a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result.

WHY SHOULD I GET A DIP MANICURE?

Dip nail manicures boast remarkable durability. Typically, I can enjoy a set of dip powder nails for at least two weeks, even though I’m known for frequently peeling off regular polish. The use of the appropriate polishes in dip powder application results in a robust, thick layer that adheres firmly to the nails, rendering it nearly impervious to peeling. Despite my rough treatment of my nails, following these steps ensures minimal chipping, and if any occurs, it’s usually quite minor.

WHY SHOULD I DO DIP NAILS AT HOME?

The most advantageous aspect of performing your own dip manicures is the significant cost savings compared to visiting a salon. With a kit priced under $50, you can achieve numerous applications. This is approximately the cost of a single professional dip nails session Moreover, it’s a time-efficient process for me. I can complete my nails in an hour or two every few weeks while watching TV at night, a time when I would likely be using my phone or watching TV anyway. This is a much more convenient alternative to spending hours at a nail salon.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO DIP NAILS AT HOME?

At-home nail dip kits typically include dip colors, bond, base, seal protect, top coat, and clear dip powder. If not using a kit, you’ll need to buy these items separately. Besides powder and liquid polishes, gather general supplies like a nail buffer, file, dust brush or lint-free towel, cuticle pusher, and alcohol. Optionally, consider a dip powder recycling system and cuticle oil.

HOW TO APPLY DIP NAILS AT HOME 

Use polish remover as well as a cuticle pusher

 If there is existing polish on your nails, employ a non-acetone nail polish remover on a lint-free pad to remove it. Use a cuticle pusher to delicately push back your cuticles. Then, gently eliminate any excess cuticle protruding with a cuticle trimmer or scraper. By following these steps, you create space for new nail growth, enhancing the longevity of your manicure before requiring a refill.

Buff the top surfaces of the nails

Regardless of whether your nails are natural, acrylic, or gel, ensure the surfaces are smooth by manually filing them. Utilize a 180 grit file or block, or opt for a natural nail stone. Clear away the filing residue using a nail brush or a makeup powder brush.

Pay special attention to buffing the grooves and the cuticle area for a polished finish.

File away any problematic areas

Inspect the edges of your nails for any signs of looseness or damage. Additionally, check for any lifting if you are performing a refill on a previous dip manicure. Employ a coarse nail file (100 or 180 grit) to address any such areas. If you don’t have tips applied already and wish to add them for added length, trim your natural nails to a short length. Utilize the nail file to smooth the edges for a polished finish.

Sanitize your nails with alcohol

Moisten a paper towel or lint-free pad with alcohol or nail sanitizer, which can be in the form of an antiseptic spray or a pourable container. Gently rub the dampened towel over your nails and fingers, moving from the nearest knuckle to your cuticles and down towards your nails. This process effectively cleans and dehydrates the nail surface, ensuring they are properly prepared for a dip manicure. The goal is to avoid sealing in any bacteria or grime during the application.

Find the right-sized tips

To lengthen your nails, select tips that cover no more than one-third of your nail bed. Ensure each tip spans the entire width of your nail, from groove to groove, without extending onto your skin. Apply tip resin to the wells of the tips. Gently but firmly hold each tip to the nail at a 45-degree angle for twenty seconds. In case you can’t find a nail tip of the right size, use a nail file to make minor adjustments for a secure fit. Pinch the sides of the tips briefly to adhere them to the curvature of your nail edges. Be cautious not to get resin on your fingers.

Trim and file the tips

File the edges of the tips evenly across. Buff the top surfaces of the tips to eliminate their shine. Proceed to buff the entire nails.

COATING YOUR NAILS WITH POWDER

Paint on the bonder

Follow the steps outlined in this procedure for each nail individually. Apply the product in small strokes, beginning approximately 1/16” away from your cuticles. Ensure even spreading to prevent any buildup near the cuticle area. Allow it to sit for one minute.

Brush resin onto your nails

Apply the resin methodically and uniformly, using the brush applicator’s belly to dot it on rather than employing strokes similar to nail polish. Strive for an even and neat application, with particular attention to creating a clean edge just above the cuticle, as this will be the foundation for the powder adhesion. For a fill, if two weeks have passed since your last dip manicure, apply resin to your desired thickness, such as three to four coats. No additional powder application is necessary at this stage. If you’re conducting a manicure on your natural nails or it has been three or more weeks since your last dip manicure, apply a single coat of resin at this point.

Dip your finger into the container of clear nail powder

Start by shaking the sealed container of powder thoroughly. After opening the container, use a nail stick or pusher to mix the powder. Gently push your finger forward into the container and roll it softly. Allow your finger to remain in the powder for five seconds. Lift your finger and tap the edge of the container. Then, using your other hand, tap the dipped finger to shake off excess powder back into the container. Once the nail has dried, employ a nail brush to eliminate any remaining excess powder over a paper towel. Avoid using colored powder at this stage. If you wish to add color, that step will come after applying more resin.

Apply more resin and powder

Cover the entire nail, including the tips, with a layer of resin. Apply it slowly and evenly across the nail surface. If you wish to incorporate colored powder, this is the appropriate stage to do so! Dip your finger into the nail powder once again, then eliminate any surplus powder. Follow up with a third and final application of resin. If you desire, you can repeat this step once more to attain a slightly thicker and stronger manicure.

CURING AND FINISHING THE NAILS

Brush on activator

Apply it using strokes, much like you would with regular nail polish. Let it sit on the nails for five seconds. Follow up with a second coat and allow that to sit for another five seconds.

File the nail edges to dull and shape them

Employ a soft-grid file on the exposed edges and lateral sides of the nails.

Finish with a top coat

Ensure it’s a top coat specifically designed for acrylic nails. Keep your fingers still and allow your nails to air-dry for two minutes. Gently massage cuticle oil into the skin surrounding your fingernails. Apply the top coat just as you would regular nail polish.

Wash your hands

Ensure your nails are entirely dry beforehand. Use warm water, hand soap, and a nail brush, making sure to clean around and underneath the tips of your nails. Gently pat your nails dry with a towel.

Maintain your manicure

Follow these guidelines to extend the longevity of your manicure. Your manicure has the potential to last three to four weeks before requiring a fill. However, if you observe new nail growth near the cuticle area, you may choose to perform the fill as early as two weeks after your dip manicure. When applying colored polish over your manicure, be careful not to get it on your cuticles to prevent chipping and lifting of the polish. Additionally, mix the polish by rolling it between your hands instead of shaking it to avoid the formation of air bubbles that may contribute to chipping. If you use a fan for nail drying, opt for cool air rather than warm air. Consider using a blow dryer on the cool setting. To prevent chipping, reapply a clear top coat every few days. Massage cuticle oil onto your nails daily, if possible. When washing your hands, use mild soap instead of hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer is potent and dehydrating, posing the risk of eroding your protective top coat

CONCLUSION

Doing dip nails yourself at home is not only an experience but it is also very interesting for those who want to explore and learn. You can start with the basic steps we have outlined in the article. Hopefully after reading our article, you will know how to dip your nails at home and create beautiful nails for yourself.